PlanetF1

Renault frustrated by 'lack of recognition'

Friday 08-March-2013 10:02

Renault chief operating officer Carlos Tavares is "frustrated" that his company is not getting the credit he feels they deserve for Red Bull's triumphs.

Powered by Renault engines, Red Bull Racing have dominated Formula One in recent years, claiming a hat-trick of Drivers' and Constructors' titles.

"We are frustrated by the lack of recognition we get for beating the likes of Ferrari and Mercedes," Tavares told Autocar. "It is true that I think we deserve better.

"But part of that problem at least must lie with our global marketing team. It is clear that we must create a bigger buzz around what we do.

"We are World Champions, we are able to sell our engines to the teams because of that, but we do not get enough recognition beyond that."

Red Bull, though, is not the only outfit running Renault engines as the French manufacturer also supplies Williams, Lotus and Caterham.

"The relationship with all our teams is warm, emotional even," Tavares added.

"Frank Williams himself is highly respected within Renault, not just for the championships and races we have won in the past together, but also for his humility and personality.

"Lotus we have historic ties with, through the Enstone operation, while Caterham is our joint venture partner on the Alpine sports car project.

"All three of these teams have a specific link back to Renault, and that counts. Perhaps one day we can reach the same point with Red Bull."